Obituary of Barbara Lanza

Barbara Schaefer Lanza, 70, 

Former resident of North Salem, NY; Resident of Honesdale, PA

Barbara Schaefer Lanza, 70, passed away on November 15th, 2025 after a courageous battle with Acute Myeloid Leukemia

Born on October 19, 1955, in Washington, D.C., Barbara was the daughter of Donald and Patricia Schaefer. She grew up in Maryland and graduated from La Reine High School in Suitland. She went on to earn her Bachelor of Science in Nursing with high honors from the University of Maryland, Baltimore.

Barbara devoted her nursing career to Westchester Medical Center in Valhalla, New York, where she was known as an extraordinarily gifted, compassionate, and steady presence for her patients and colleagues alike.

Barbara was immensely loving—a devoted wife, mother, sister, and friend. She formed deep and lasting friendships through every stage of her life. She cared deeply and wholeheartedly, and people felt that. Whether you knew her for decades or for a short time, you felt seen, welcomed, and valued. Barbara gave generously of her time as a Girl Scout troop leader and active local volunteer, her warmth enriched every community she joined. Service wasn’t something she added to her life; it was woven into who she was.

She had a boundless affection for animals, from her beloved dogs and backyard chickens to the neighboring cows she delighted in visiting with a fresh batch of pancakes. She found joy in working outdoors, especially gardening, and inside she had a true talent for creating a warm, welcoming home filled with meaningful antiques and her favorite thrift-store treasures.

Ever curious and adventurous, Barbara loved exploring—whether hiking local trails, taking quirky road trips with her husband, or heading into the city with friends to visit historic sites and try new restaurants.

Barbara is survived by her devoted husband, Alfred Lanza; her loving daughter, Kathryn, and son-in-law, Robert; and her cherished sister, Donna.

She will be remembered for her fun, joyful spirit, her kindness, and the warmth she shared so freely. Her presence touched everyone who knew her, and the memories of good time spent together will be treasured always.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Barbara’s honor to organizations that were close to her heart: Friends of Karen, Wounded Warriors, ASPCA, or your local community food kitchen.

Her family will receive friends on Thursday, November 20th from 8:30am to 9:30 am at Clark Associates Funeral Home, 4 Woods Bridge Road, Katonah, NY.

The Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Thursday, November 20th at 10:00 am at St.Joseph's RC Church,95 Plum Brook Road, Somers, NY 10589.

Interment will follow at Middle Patent Rural Cemetery, Banksville Road, Banksville, NY 10506.